The variety of microorganisms in soils
The variety of microorganisms in soils
microorganisms are the most hidden yet most popular inhabitants of our planet. These tiny living beings are so small that you cannot see them without a microscope, but their collective biomass exceeds the entire biomass of the planet. In this article we take a privileged look at the amazing variety of microorganisms in soils and consider their importance for the ecosystem and human existence.
The variety of microorganisms
bacteria and archaea
First we focus our attention on bacteria and archaea. These two groups of microorganisms are prokaryotic, which means that they have no cell nucleus. Their size varies, but many are about a micrometer (one millionth meter) wide. According to a study in 2016, a gram of earth contains up to a billion bacteria that belong to thousands of different species (source: PNAS, 2016).
bacteria and archaea are so diverse in floors because they can adapt very well to different environmental conditions. They also fulfill a variety of functions. They help with soil structuring, promote the circulation of nutrients, are involved in the decomposition of organic substances, can trigger or protect diseases in plants and animals and have useful industrial applications, including the production of antibiotics and biogas.
fungi
Mushrooms are another important group of microorganisms in soils. Like bacteria and archaea, they are eukaryotic, i.e. with cell nucleus, and they share many of the same functions. They break down complex organic compounds, save and transport nutrients, and some types form symbiotic relationships with plants and animals.
There are an estimation of around 1.5 million mushroom types worldwide, but only about five percent were described (source: Proc. R. Soc. B, 2011). Protozoen and algae
Protozoa are microscopic unicellular realms that are much larger than bacteria and archaea, and they play basic roles in the floor life cycle. They eat bacteria and fungal spores and thereby contribute to the regulation of these populations. They also participate in the decomposition of organic compounds and improve the soil structure.
algae, most microalgae, are widespread in floors and other wetland. They make important contributions to photosynthesis and oxygen production and play a role in ground stability and nutrient cycles.
The functions of soil microorganisms in the ecosystem
Microorganisms in soils fulfill a variety of functions in the ecosystem. Here are some of the most important.
decomposition
The decomposition of organic material is one of the most important functions of floor microorganisms. They take over part of the mining of organic material that would otherwise be slow and inefficient.
Sympionets
Many floor microcorants live in symbiotic relationships with plants and animals. They deliver nutrients and protect their hosts from diseases.
soil structure
Microorganisms are crucial for soil structure and the preservation of soil fertility. They are involved in the formation of soil crumbs and improve water absorption and storage in the soil.
biological control
Some floor microcorants have important roles in the biological control of pests and diseases. You can keep harmful microbes under control and thus contribute to the health of animal and plant populations.
meaning for humans
Microorganisms in soils are essential for many human activities.
agriculture
The importance of floor microorganisms in agriculture cannot be emphasized enough. They contribute to soil fertility and are important for plant growth and the nutrient absorption of the plants.
Medicine
Many medication and antibiotics, such as the streptomycin obtained from streptomycetes, were originally produced by ground microcorganisms.
environmental renovation
Soil microorganisms play an important role in cleaning contaminated soils and water, a process that is known as a biological renovation.
FAZIT
Although tiny, microorganisms have an immense impact on life in soils and on earth in general. Their diversity and numerous specialized functions make them irreplaceable in maintaining soil health and global ecosystems. With their understanding, we can use more sustainable practices in agriculture and environmental renovation and open up new opportunities in medicine and industry.